Violence against girls and women is one of the most common human rights violations in the world and a major barrier to the equal development of society. Every 10 minutes, partners and family members killed a woman or a girl intentionally in 2023, according to UN Women. The phenomenon is concerning in Albania as well, despite the efforts being made to prevent it.
Under the slogan “With You! For You! No Excuse for Violence,” an awareness-raising event was held yesterday in the city of Elbasan, bringing together representatives from the EU Delegation in Albania, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Municipality of Elbasan, civil society organizations, as well as dozens of doctors, nurses, social workers, psychologists, and students.
The event was organized within the framework of the European Union-funded project “RISE HER (Revitalize Independence and Solid Empowerment for Her),” aimed at increasing awareness in local communities about reporting and preventing gender-based violence and creating a culture of respect and support for women and girls.
“Violence against women and girls is never acceptable. We stand by the Albanian government and its institutions to end this phenomenon and create a safe and supportive environment for women and girls, where they can live without fear and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are also grateful for the partnership with the project’s implementing organizations, who have been part of this transformative journey,” stated Hubert Perr, Director of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Tirana.
During the event, the Coordinated Referral Mechanism was also discussed, particularly highlighting the essential role of medical staff in identifying, referring, and treating gender-based violence.
“Violence is a phenomenon that cannot simply be talked about; we must take concrete action. Healthcare structures play a crucial role in addressing this issue. It is essential that where there is a health need, there is also social and psychological support.It is important to unite the efforts of healthcare, social institutions, and civil society organizations to tackle this problem,” said Albana Koçiu, Minister of Health and Social Protection.
“Eliminating gender-based violence and empowering girls and women is also crucial for strengthening the family as a whole,” said Eljona Elmazi, emphasizing that a study conducted by World Vision Albania in 8 municipalities of the country found that “Empowered women raise empowered children.”
The event also featured a mini-fair, showcasing the “Revitalize Independence and Solid Empowerment for Her” project, as well as the services offered by civil society organizations and healthcare services in reporting and preventing gender-based violence.
About the project:
The “RISE HER – Revitalize Independence and Solid Empowerment for Her” project is funded by the European Union and implemented by World Vision Albania and the Women’s Forum Elbasan, with the support of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection. The project is being carried out in 7 municipalities in the Elbasan region.
The overall goal of the project is to strengthen the capacities of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in addressing gender inequalities, particularly Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and to create sustainable solutions with a long-term impact on the lives of individuals in vulnerable situations.
Through this goal, the project focuses on supporting and empowering women and girls living in vulnerable situations, facing economic difficulties, and those who are victims of domestic violence and gender-based violence, among others.
One of the main objectives is to educate a new generation that does not accept or tolerate violence or gender inequality in families and society.
Photos and text by Alfons Cupaj – PR and Communications, World Vision Albania